-
Azam Akhmedov, Mariana Petrova, Izzatulla Levakov, Mukhtorjon Makhmudov
FINTECH'S ROLE IN IMPROVING ACCESS TO FINANCE FOR SMALL BUSINESSES IN UZBEKISTAN
Abstract:
This paper investigates the impact of financial technologies (FinTech) on bank lending to small business entities (SBEs) in Uzbekistan, with particular attention to the moderating role of bank size. Using regional panel data from 2015–2023, supplemented with projections for 2024–2025, and applying fixed-effects panel regressions complemented by fractional response and 2SLS robustness checks, the analysis shows that FinTech significantly increases SBE credit supply, but this effect is bank-size dependent: large banks benefit substantially, whereas small banks lose part of their traditional relationship-lending advantage. The main contribution lies in providing the first regional-level macro evidence on the size-dependent effect of FinTech on SBE lending in an emerging-market context, with direct policy relevance for Uzbekistan and similar economies.
-
Karmen Dimitrov Vranchev
IMPACT OF DIRECT GERMAN INVESTMENTS ON BULGARIAN ECONOMY
Abstract:
The impact of foreign direct investments on the economy of the host country is indisputable. They affect national production, its volume and structure, trade (imports and exports), the local market and competition, employment and income, innovation and technological development, etc. Their effects are evident at company (micro), state (macro) and regional levels. The article analyzes the significance of Germany and the direct investments of German origin for our economy, as well as the impact of Aurubis Bulgaria as the largest German investment through direct, indirect and multiplier effects on the metallurgical industry in Bulgaria and the company’s role in the economic growth of the country.
-
Lyuben Kirev
TECHNOLOGICAL TRANSFER BY TRANSNATIONAL CORPORATIONS AND THE GLOBALIZATION OF KNOWLEDGE
Abstract:
The subject of study in this paper is the transfer of technology and the globalization of knowledge by transnational corporations through the export of foreign direct investment, international trade in knowledge-consuming goods and the buying and selling of licenses, patents and know-how. It is indicated that the transfer of technology worldwide through the sale of licenses and know-how and the export of knowledge-consuming output is the exclusive responsibility of transnational corpora¬tions that are also engaged in the import and export of foreign direct investment.
